Certain species of Opuntia are spineless and could be used as fodder for cattle and sheep particularly during times of drought. The high water content of cactus pads offers an added advantage. Feeding cactus resolves the problem of watering animals in arid environment. 

These plants efficiently convert water into biomass on poor soils in dry climate. Planting opuntias on such soils reduces desertification. The fruits are edible and can generate additional income. The plant has medicinal uses and can also be employed in dye production.

This plant has immense potential to mitigate drought. ICT could spearhead popularization of this plant and wide spread adoption.